Should Maine and New Hampshire Legalize Paid Time Off During Snowstorms?

Wednesday's commute will be rough. Thursday morning's will likely be worse. If New Hampshire and Maine follow Britain, however, taking a snow day won't cost you vacation or sick leave. It will be paid time off.

According to Gov.uk, “If the workplace is closed because of disruption and the employee doesn’t usually work from home, employers can’t usually deduct pay.”

For example, if the business closes because of say, 18 inches of snow, you could still get paid, even if punching the clock.

In addition, "if your office is still open but your child’s school is closed due to the weather, employees legally have the right to time off, as this is considered an official emergency," according to Gov.uk.

The page does stipulate it isn't a guarantee: "Employees are not automatically entitled to pay if they’re unable to get to work because of bad weather. Guidance is available from the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service."

In short, it's on the business to close for employees to be eligible for pay.